By Alicia Chamely

VISUALLY impaired children have the right to access every tool needed to learn, grow and academically succeed through accessible textbooks and reading materials available at The National Library (NALIS)

The Trinidad and Tobago Blind Welfare Association (TTBWA) called on parents and guardians of blind or visually impaired children to register at NALIS to ensure access to books in a “format they can use-at the same time as everyone else.”

In a press release on Monday, TTWBA stated under the Marrakesh Treaty, of which Trinidad and Tobago is a signatory, blind and visually impaired children have the legal right to accessible textbooks and reading materials.

The TTBWA explained NALIS was an authorized entity under the Treaty and once a child was registered they would have access to books, textbooks, study guides, audio books, DAISY and EPUB accessible books and books in digital braille.

“This is not ‘special’,” the Association stated, “It is equal access to learning.”

Stating that no visually impaired child should have to “fall behind while the world moves forward” the TTBWA called on parents of children with low vision, blindness and/or children with print disabilities, such as dyslexia, to register.

The TTBWA said registration was simple and confidential and all a parent had to do was visit their nearest NALIS Library and inform them of their child’s visual disability.

“We want our children to stand next to theirs and know they belong,” they stated.

“The Marrakesh Treaty gives us the key. NALIS is the door. Parents, you are the ones who open it,” the TTBWA urged.

The Association encouraged parents to reach out to them should they need assistance or further support.

“Let’s ensure every blind and visually impaired child in Trinidad and Tobago has the chance to learn, grow, and succeed,” the TTBWA added.